Convertible seat assembly

ABSTRACT

Convertible seats that can convert a seat from a standard seating position to an elevated seating position are provided. The convertible seat includes a primary seating surface integrally formed with a secondary seating surface, where the convertible seat can move between a standard seating configuration in which the primary seating surface is generally parallel with the ground and the secondary seating surface is generally perpendicular to the primary seating surface and an elevated seating configuration in which the secondary seating surface is generally parallel with the ground and the primary seating surface is generally perpendicular to the secondary seating surface. The elevated seating configuration can support a user in a sitting or leaning position that is higher than a sitting position in the standard seating configuration.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a convertible seat that canconvert the seat from a standard seating position to an elevated seatingposition. The convertible seat may be used for a variety of differentseating applications, including, for example, seating for tree stands,boats, stadiums, theaters, and waiting areas.

BACKGROUND

Many different types of hunting tree stands and deer stands have beendeveloped for hunting game. These tree stands typically include astanding platform and a seat so that a hunter may stand or sit whilehunting. Hunters and other avid naturalists using the tree stands oftendesire an adjustable seat that can convert from a seated position into astanding position, or at least close to a standing position, in order toget a better view of the wildlife or to get better positioned to take ashot. Similarly, in the boating industry, boat seats that are normallybuilt into the boats are typically located well down in the boat. Theseat is generally too low to be conveniently used during many types ofboating and fishing activities. Like hunters and naturalists, boatersgenerally desire boat seats that can be adjusted to convenient heightsfor activities, such as fishing, while permitting it to be safelyoccupied during movement of the boat. Although some adjustable seatsexist for tree stands and boats, the adjustable seats are bulky, requiremultiple different seating components, and are difficult to adjust.Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for an improved adjustableseat that is more compact, can be operated more easily, and can be usedfor multiple different seating applications.

SUMMARY

The problems expounded above, as well as others, are addressed by thefollowing inventions, although it is to be understood that not everyembodiment of the inventions described herein will address each of theproblems described above.

In some embodiments, a tree stand is provided, the tree stand includinga standing surface; a support structure having an upper end and a lowerend, wherein the lower end is operatively connected to the standingsurface, a convertible seat operatively attached to the upper end of thesupport structure, wherein the convertible seat includes a primaryseating surface integrally formed with a secondary seating surface, theprimary seating surface extending from a rear edge to a frontmost edgeof the convertible seat and the secondary seating surface extending fromthe frontmost edge to a bottom edge of the convertible seat, wherein thesecondary seating surface curves downwardly from the frontmost portionto the bottom edge of the convertible seat, wherein the convertible seatis operable to move about a horizontal axis between a standard seatingconfiguration in which the primary seating surface is generally parallelwith the standing surface and the secondary seating surface is generallyperpendicular to the primary seating surface and an elevated seatingconfiguration in which the secondary seating surface is generallyparallel with the standing surface and the primary seating surface isgenerally perpendicular to the secondary seating surface, and whereinthe standard seating configuration supports a user in a first positionat a first height and the elevated seating configuration supports theuser in a second position at a second height, the second height beinghigher than the first height.

In one embodiment, the support structure includes a pair of legs and theconvertible seat is pivotally attached to the upper ends of each of thelegs via a pair of fittings. In other embodiments, the fittings eachinclude a notch configured for engaging a locking mechanism on thesupport structure for securing the convertible seat in the elevatedseating configuration. In still other embodiments, the locking mechanismincludes a pair of stop members on each of the legs configured forengaging the notches on the fittings when the convertible seat is in theelevated seating configuration. In yet other embodiments, the primaryseating surface is substantially flat. In still other embodiments, thesecond height is at least about 10 inches higher than the first height.In further embodiments, the convertible seat includes a seat framehaving a rear edge, wherein the rear edge is operatively attached to theupper end of the support structure. In still further embodiments, whenthe convertible seat is oriented in the standard seating configuration,the convertible seat is operable to pivot in an upward direction aboutthe horizontal axis to convert the convertible seat to the elevatedseating configuration. In yet further embodiments, when the convertibleseat is oriented in the elevated seating configuration, the convertibleseat is operable to pivot in a downward direction about the horizontalaxis to convert the convertible seat to the standard seatingconfiguration.

In other embodiments, a tree stand is provided, the tree stand includingupper and lower climbing platform members, each having a front endportion for engaging a tree to be climbed, a convertible seat pivotallyattached to the upper climbing platform member, wherein the convertibleseat comprises a primary seating surface integrally formed with asecondary seating surface, the primary seating surface extending from arear edge to a frontmost edge of the convertible seat and the secondaryseating surface extending from the frontmost edge to a bottom edge ofthe convertible seat, wherein the convertible seat is operable to pivotabout a horizontal axis between a standard seating configuration inwhich the primary seating surface is generally parallel with thestanding surface and the secondary seating surface is generallyperpendicular to the primary seating surface and an elevated seatingconfiguration in which the secondary seating surface is generallyparallel with the standing surface and the primary seating surface isgenerally perpendicular to the secondary seating surface, and whereinthe standard seating configuration supports a user in a first positionat a first height and the elevated seating configuration supports theuser in a second position at a second height, the second height beinghigher than the first height.

In some embodiments, the upper climbing member includes a vertical postand the convertible seat is pivotally attached to each side of thevertical post via a pair of fittings. In other embodiments, the fittingsare pivotally attached to the vertical post by fasteners secured with aretaining member. In still other embodiments, the fittings each includea notch configured for engaging a locking mechanism on the vertical postfor securing the convertible seat in the elevated seating configuration.In yet other embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a pair of stopmembers on each side of the vertical post configured for engaging thenotches on the fittings when the convertible seat is in the elevatedseating configuration. In further embodiments, the fittings each includea slot for receiving an edge of the convertible seat. In still furtherembodiments, the secondary seating surface curves downwardly from thefrontmost portion to the bottom edge of the convertible seat. In yetfurther embodiments, the second height is at least about 10 incheshigher than the first height. In other embodiments, the upper and lowerclimbing platform members each include an adjustable cable attachedthereto for encircling the tree to be climbed. In still furtherembodiments, when the convertible seat is oriented in the standardseating configuration, the convertible seat is operable to pivot in anupward direction about the horizontal axis to convert the convertibleseat to the elevated seating configuration. In other embodiments, whenthe convertible seat is oriented in the elevated seating configuration,the convertible seat is operable to pivot in a downward direction aboutthe horizontal axis to convert the convertible seat to the standardseating configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages can be ascertained from the followingdetailed description that is provided in connection with the drawingsdescribed below:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hang-on tree stand having aconvertible seat attached thereto in a horizontal or standard seatingconfiguration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is side view of the hang-on tree stand shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the hang-on tree stand having theconvertible seat attached thereto in a vertical or elevated seatingconfiguration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the hang-on tree stand shown in FIG. 3 .

FIG. 5A is an enlarged view of a pivoting and locking mechanism for theconvertible seat when positioned in the horizontal or standard seatingconfiguration according to an exemplary embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of the pivoting and locking mechanism forthe convertible seat when positioned in the vertical or elevated seatingconfiguration according to an exemplary embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a climbing tree stand having theconvertible seat attached thereto in the horizontal or standard seatingconfiguration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the climbing tree stand having theconvertible seat attached thereto in the vertical or elevated seatingconfiguration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B is a side view of a top portion of the climbing tree stand shownin FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the convertible seat in the horizontalor standard seating configuration and adapted for use in a boataccording to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the convertible seat in the vertical orelevated seating configuration and adapted for use in a boat accordingto one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the convertible seat in the horizontalor standard seating configuration and attached within a boat accordingto one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the convertible seat in the vertical orelevated seating configuration and attached within a boat according toone embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the convertible seat in the horizontalor standard seating configuration with a back rest attached theretoaccording to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the convertible seat in the vertical orelevated seating configuration with a back rest attached theretoaccording to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art of this disclosure. It will be furtherunderstood that terms, such as those defined in commonly useddictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the specification andshould not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unlessexpressly so defined herein. Well known functions or constructions maynot be described in detail for brevity or clarity.

The terms “about” and “approximately” shall generally mean an acceptabledegree of error or variation for the quantity measured given the natureor precision of the measurements. Numerical quantities given in thisdescription are approximate unless stated otherwise, meaning that theterm “about” or “approximately” can be inferred when not expresslystated.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, thesingular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural(i.e., “at least one”) forms as well, unless the context clearlyindicates otherwise.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like are used herein todescribe various features or elements, but these features or elementsshould not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used todistinguish one feature or element from another feature or element.Thus, a first feature or element discussed below could be termed asecond feature or element, and similarly, a second feature or elementdiscussed below could be termed a first feature or element withoutdeparting from the teachings of the present disclosure.

Spatially relative terms, such as “above,” “under,” “below,” “lower,”“over,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to anotherwhen the apparatus is right side up as shown in the accompanyingdrawings.

It is to be understood that any given elements of the disclosedembodiments of the invention may be embodied in a single structure, asingle step, a single substance, or the like. Similarly, a given elementof the disclosed embodiment may be embodied in multiple structures,steps, substances, or the like.

The present disclosure provides a convertible seat that can be utilizedfor a variety of different seating applications, including seating forhunting stands, boats, stadiums, construction vehicles, agriculturalvehicles, and the like. The seat of the present disclosure isconvertible between a standard seating configuration and an elevatedseating/leaning configuration. The convertible seat permits quick andsimple conversion between the two positions, giving the user comfort andsupport whether the user is sitting or leaning. The integral nature ofthe convertible seat also allows for a more compact design and dispensesof the need for separate seating structures for different seatingconfigurations.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 , a hang-on tree stand 100 that includes aconvertible seat 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the presentdisclosure is shown. The hang-on tree stand 100 may be affixed orsecured to a tree in an open, operational position, as shown in FIGS.1-4 , for hunting game. The convertible seat 10 provides a dual seatarrangement for the hang-on tree stand 100 where the seat 10 can beconverted between a horizontal or standard seating configuration, asillustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , and a vertical or elevated seatingconfiguration, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 . The horizontalconfiguration allows a user to sit in a normal sitting position, forinstance, a 90-degree sitting posture. The vertical configurationprovides an elevated seating or leaning position for the user. Theelevated seating or leaning position may be particularly advantageousfor hunters when a hunter sees a deer or other game in the distance andwishes to get a better view of the game. The elevated seating or leaningposition may also be advantageous for photographers or naturalistsviewing wildlife and other aspects of nature.

The hang-on tree stand 100 includes a standing platform 12 and a supportstructure 14 having two legs 15 a, 15 b pivotally engaged with thestanding platform 12. A convertible seat 10 is operatively attached toupper ends of each of the legs 15 a, 15 b of the support structure 14.The hang-on tree stand 100 may be affixed or secured to a tree usingadjustable straps 16 a, 16 b that are operatively attached to thesupport structure 14. A pair of flexible support cables 18 a, 18 b maybe attached between the support structure 14 and the standing platform12 to maintain the support structure 14 and the standing platform 12 ata generally right angle during use. A pair of upper and lower blades 17a, 17 b may also be attached to the support structure 14. The upper andlower blades 17 a, 17 b dig into the tree or engage the tree while theadjustable straps 16 a, 16 b encircle and hold the tree stand 100against the tree. Horizontal brace 19 extending across the legs 15 a, 15b of the support structure 14 may be used to attach the upper blades 17a to the support structure 14.

The convertible seat 10 includes a seat frame 20 having a seatingsurface 22 attached thereto. The seating surface 22 has a primaryseating surface 24 integrally formed with a secondary seating surface26. The primary seating surface 24 extends from a rear edge 28 of theseat frame 20 to a front edge 30 of the seat 10. As shown in FIG. 1 ,the primary seating surface 24 is substantially flat, such that the usermay comfortably sit anywhere along the primary seating surface 24. Thesecondary seating surface 26 extends from the front edge 30 of the seat10 to a bottom edge 32 of the seat frame 20. As illustrated in FIG. 1 ,the secondary seating surface 26 gradually curves downward from thefront edge 30 to the bottom edge 32 to avoid the pressure of a hard edgeon the thighs of the user when sitting in the standard seatingconfiguration.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show the convertible seat 10 oriented in a horizontal orstandard seating configuration, which allows the user to sit in a normalsitting position. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , when the convertible seat10 is in the horizontal or standard seating configuration, the primaryseating surface 24 is generally parallel with the standing platform 12while the secondary seating surface 26 is oriented in a generallydownward perpendicular orientation with respect to the primary seatingsurface 24. The horizontal or standard seating configuration provides afirst sitting position for the user at a first height. In thisembodiment, the user is generally seated in a 90-degree posture with theuser's feet on the surface of the standing platform 12.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show the convertible seat 10 oriented in a vertical orelevated seating configuration, which allows the user to sit at anelevated position or lean against the seat 10. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the convertible seat 10 is in the vertical or elevated seatingconfiguration, the secondary seating surface 26 is generally parallelwith the standing platform 12 while the primary seating surface 24 isoriented in a generally downward perpendicular orientation with respectto the secondary seating surface 26. The vertical or elevated seatingconfiguration provides a second sitting position for the user at asecond height. In this embodiment, the second sitting position is at aheight higher than the first sitting position provided by the horizontalor standard seating configuration. In some embodiments, the secondsitting position provided in the vertical configuration is at leastabout 8 inches higher than the first sitting position provided in thehorizontal configuration. In other embodiments, the second sittingposition provided in the vertical configuration is at least about 10inches higher than the first sitting position provided in the horizontalconfiguration. In still other embodiments, the second sitting positionprovided in the vertical configuration is at least about 12 incheshigher than the first sitting position provided in the horizontalconfiguration. In yet other embodiments, the second sitting positionprovided in the vertical configuration is at least about 18 incheshigher than the first sitting position provided in the horizontalconfiguration. For instance, the second sitting position provided in thevertical configuration may be about 10 inches to about 18 inches higherthan the first sitting position provided in the horizontalconfiguration.

The convertible seat 10, including the seat frame 20 with the seatingsurface 22 attached thereto, can pivot about a generally horizontal axisto move the convertible seat 10 between the standard seatingconfiguration and the elevated seating configuration described above. Asbest shown in FIG. 3 , an underside of the rear edge 28 of the seatframe 20 is attached to each of the legs 15 a, 15 b of the supportstructure 14 via fittings 34 a, 34 b. The fittings 34 a, 34 b eachinclude a slot 44 that is sized and shaped to receive a portion of therear edge 28 of the seat frame 20. The fittings 34 a, 34 b are attachedto each leg 15 a, 15 b of the support structure 14 via fasteners 36 a,36 b received through corresponding holes in the fittings 34 a, 34 b andthe support structure 14. The fasteners 36 a, 36 b may be secured inplace with a retaining member 42, as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. Forexample, the fasteners 36 a, 36 b may be through-hole bolts secured inplace with retaining members, such as nuts comprising an inner threadfor threaded engagement with the bolts. The fittings 34 a, 34 b and thefasteners 36 a, 36 b attached thereto provide a pivot connection betweenthe seat frame 20 and the support structure 14. That is, the seat frame20 can pivot about the horizontal axis of the fasteners 36 a, 36 b in anupward and downward direction to change the configuration of theconvertible seat 10.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show the fittings 34 a, 34 b that permit pivotalmovement about the horizontal axis and a locking mechanism for securingthe convertible seat 10 in the vertical configuration when the seat 10is flipped upwardly. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the fittings 34 a, 34b include notches 38 a, 38 b adjacent to the fasteners 36 a, 36 b. Thenotches 38 a, 38 b are configured to engage with stop members 40 a, 40 bpositioned below the fasteners 36 a, 36 b on the legs 15 a, 15 b of thesupport structure 14 as the convertible seat 10 pivots in an upwarddirection. When the convertible seat 10 is oriented in the horizontalconfiguration, as shown in FIG. 5A, the fittings 34 a, 34 b andcorresponding notches 38 a, 38 b are aligned horizontally with the seatframe 20. As the convertible seat 10 pivots in an upward direction, thefittings 34 a, 34 b and corresponding notches 38 a, 38 b move in aclockwise direction toward the stop members 40 a, 40 b. The notches 38a, 38 b are configured to engage with the stop members 40 a, 40 b as theconvertible seat 10 pivots upward to the vertical or elevated seatingconfiguration. The stop members 40 a, 40 b lock the fittings 34 a, 34 bin place and prevent any further pivot movement in the upward direction,as illustrated in FIG. 5B. When the user wishes to move the convertibleseat 10 to the horizontal configuration, the user may pull the seat 10in an upward direction, the force of which releases the fittings 34 a,34 b from the stop members 40 a, 40 b so that the seat 10 can pivotdownward to the horizontal configuration.

The stop members 40 a, 40 b described above are configured to lock theconvertible seat 10 in place while the seat 10 is oriented in thevertical configuration. However, the seat 10 may also include a lockingmechanism to secure the convertible seat 10 in place while the seat 10is oriented in the horizontal configuration. As illustrated in FIGS. 3and 5B, the rear edge 28 of the seat frame 20 includes two brace members46 a, 46 b positioned directly above each of the legs 15 a, 15 b of thesupport structure 14 and adjacent to the fittings 34 a, 34 b. The bracemembers 46 a, 46 b abut the legs 15 a, 15 b of the support structure 14to prevent any further pivot movement in the downward direction once theconvertible seat 10 is oriented in the horizontal configuration. Thatis, the brace members 46 a, 46 b act as a physical stop in preventingany further movement in the downward direction when the user is seatedin the horizontal or standard seating configuration. In the illustratedembodiment, the brace members 46 a, 46 b are rectangular shaped to matchthe rectangular contour of the seat frame 20. However, the brace members46 a, 46 b may have any other suitable shape so long as the bracemembers 46 a, 46 b are capable of abutting the support structure 14 toprevent further pivoting in the downward direction.

The stop members on the support structure and the brace memberspositioned on the seat been illustrated herein as exemplary lockingmechanisms. As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art,various other securing or locking mechanisms may be used with theconvertible seat of the present disclosure. For example, the fittings 34a, 34 b may be equipped with slotted holes that allow for translationalmovement. In other embodiments, the fittings 34 a, 34 b may include aremovable retention pin in place of each of the notches 38 a, 38 b.Here, the removable retention pins may be received through holes in thefittings 34 a, 34 b and the legs 15 a, 15 b of the support structure 14.The retention pin can be removed when the user desires to pivot the seat10 to a different configuration and may be inserted back into thefittings 34 a, 34 b to lock the seat 10 in the desired position. Instill further embodiments, the fittings 34 a, 34 b may incorporate aball and catch design. In this embodiment, the fittings 34 a, 34 b maybe rectangular in shape having an indentation to receive a ball bearinglocated on each of the legs 15 a, 15 b of the support structure 14. Theuser may simply push the ball bearing into the indentation to releasethe fittings 34 a, 34 b such that the convertible seat 10 can freelypivot in an upward or downward direction depending on the desiredconfiguration. In yet further embodiments, the convertible seat 10 mayinclude a pivoting brace or a hinge mechanism for locking the seat 10 inplace while it is oriented in the vertical configuration.

In use, when the hang-on tree stand 100 is secured to a tree, thestanding platform 12 is generally parallel to the ground, and thesupport structure 14 is oriented in a generally vertical position. Theprimary seating surface 24 of the convertible seat 10 may be placed in ahorizontal or standard seating configuration to provide a conventionalsitting position for the user. The user may then desire to move theconvertible seat 10 to an elevated seating configuration. In thisembodiment, the convertible seat 10 may be pivoted in an upwardlydirection to the vertical or elevated seating configuration. The upwardpivot movement occurs until the notches 38 a, 38 b catch the stopmembers 40 a, 40 b. At this point, the convertible seat 10 is in thefully vertical configuration. When in the fully vertical configuration,the secondary seating surface 26 is now in a generally horizontalposition while the primary seating surface 24 is in a generally verticalposition. The user may either sit on the secondary seating surface 26 inthis position, so that most of the user's weight is supported by thesecondary seating surface 26, or the user may simply lean on thesecondary seating surface 26.

In some embodiments, the hang-on tree stand 100 and the convertible seat10 attached thereto may be collapsible. In the collapsible embodiment,the support structure 14 folds down so that it is parallel with thestanding platform 12. The convertible seat 10 may also fold into aposition that is generally parallel with the standing platform 12.Advantageously, the hang-on tree stand 100 may be transported and storedin the collapsed position and may be moved into the operational positionfor use in a tree.

The seating surface 22 may be formed of any suitable material that isdurable yet comfortable for the user. For instance, the seating surface22 may be formed of mesh, canvas, neoprene, velour, leather, denim, orfabric. In some embodiments, the seating surface 22 is formed of a meshmaterial. The material of the seating surface 22 may optionally bepainted with a camouflage pattern to aid in concealing the convertibleseat 10. The seat frame 20 may be formed of any resilient material thatcan withstand the weight of the user. In one embodiment, the seat frame20 is formed of aluminum. Aluminum is light enough to be transportedinto a wooded area by the user. In other embodiments, the seat frame 20may be formed of high strength steel. In still further embodiments, theseat frame 20 may be formed of a resilient, synthetic plastic material,such as a reinforced glass fiber or other high strength material.

FIGS. 6, 7A, and 7B show the convertible seat 10 of the presentdisclosure attached to a climbing tree stand 200. The climbing treestand 200 is intended to move up and down the tree. The climbing treestand 200 has an upper platform 50 positioned above a lower platform 52.The convertible seat 10 is operatively attached to the upper platform 50such that the user's feet can be supported by the lower platform 52 whenthe user is seated on or leaning against the convertible seat 10. Eachof the upper and lower platforms 50, 52 have cables 54 a, 54 b,respectively, attached thereto. The cables 54 a, 54 b are dimensioned tobe wrapped around a tree. The climbing tree stand 200 may also include asecuring strap 58 that can be wrapped around the tree for additionalsupport. The upper and lower platforms 50, 52 attach to the tree in thesame fashion as the hang-on tree stand described above having the blades17 a, 17 b that dig into the tree or engage the tree while a centralportion of each of the cables 54 a, 54 b encircles and holds the upperand lower platforms 50, 52 to the tree.

The upper and lower platforms 50, 52 may each include an adjustmentmechanism 56 attached thereto for receiving the ends of the cables 54 a,54 b. The adjustment mechanism 56 is configured for adjusting theoverall length of the cables 54 a, 54 b to accommodate varying treediameters. The spacing between the nuts on the cables 54 a, 54 bprovides a good adjustment increment to accommodate different sizetrees. An exemplary adjustment mechanism is shown and described in U.S.Pat. No. 5,975,242.

The convertible seat 10 as described above with respect to FIGS. 1-4 maybe used with the climbing tree stand 200. In this embodiment, however,the underside of the rear edge 28 of the seat frame 20 is attached tothe upper platform 50. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the rear edge 28 ofthe seat frame 20 is attached to two vertical posts 60 a, 60 bpositioned in the middle of the upper platform 50. The rear edge 28 isoperatively attached to each vertical post 60 a, 60 b via the fittings34 a, 34 b disclosed above. The fittings 34 a, 34 b are attached to thevertical posts 60 a, 60 b via the fasteners 36 a, 36 b received throughcorresponding holes in the fittings 34 a, 34 b and the vertical posts 60a, 60 b.

The convertible seat 10 attached to the climbing tree stand 200 canoperate in a similar fashion as described above with respect to thehang-on tree stand 100. When the climbing tree stand 200 is secured to atree, both the upper platform 50 and the lower platform 52 are generallyparallel to the ground. The primary seating surface 24 of theconvertible seat 10 may be placed in a horizontal or standard seatingconfiguration to provide a conventional sitting position for the user,as illustrated in FIG. 6 . In this embodiment, the user's feet may beplaced on the lower platform 52. The user may then desire to move theconvertible seat 10 to an elevated seating configuration. In thisembodiment, the convertible seat 10 may be pivoted in an upwardlydirection to the vertical or elevated seating configuration, asillustrated in FIG. 7 . The exemplary locking mechanisms describedabove, for instance, the stop members 40 a, 40 b and the brace members46 a, 46 b positioned on the seat, may be used with the convertible seat10 on the climbing tree stand 200 to secure the convertible seat 10 ineither the horizontal or vertical configuration (as depicted in FIGS. 6,7A, and 7B).

While not illustrated in the figures, the convertible seat 10 can alsobe utilized with ladder stands. Ladder stands are stationary and utilizea ladder to climb up into the stand. Ladder stands contemplated by thepresent invention are similar to the hang-on tree stands describedabove, but with a ladder structurally integrated into the design. Theladder may be attached to the front of the foot platform to give theuser access to the stand. The convertible seat 10 of the presentdisclosure may be used with any type of ladder stand.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show the convertible seat 10 of the present disclosureconfigured for use as a boat seat. The convertible seat 10 may beparticularly advantageous for boats, such as fishing boats since theconvertible seat 10 can convert to an elevated seating/leaningconfiguration for fisherman when they are casting a line. The fishermancan fish at a more desirable elevated position. In the illustratedembodiment, the convertible seat 10 is operatively attached to aplatform 72. The platform 72 may be directly attached to a base (notshown) for supporting a boat seat. The platform 72 has a planar uppersurface 74 having two vertical supports 76 a, 76 b extending therefrom.The vertical supports 76 a, 76 b may have one or more brace structures82 extending from the base of each vertical support 76 a, 76 b. In theillustrated embodiment, both vertical supports 76 a, 76 b includetriangular shaped brace structures 82 on each side of the base of thesupports 76 a, 76 b. Four slots 78 are formed in the platform 72 and areconfigured to receive fasteners, such as bolts, which can extenddownwardly through the slots 78 and are threaded into the base (notshown) in order to secure the convertible seat 10 rigidly in place ontop of the base. In some embodiments, the platform 72 should havesubstantially the same width and length as a plate on the base to whichit will be attached.

The convertible seat 10 is attached to the platform 72 using a similarmechanism as described above with respect to FIGS. 1-7 . As illustratedin FIG. 9 , the underside of the rear edge 28 of the seat frame 20 isattached to the vertical supports 76 a, 76 b on the platform 72 via thefittings 34 a, 34 b disclosed above. The fittings 34 a, 34 b areattached to the vertical supports 76 a, 76 b using the fasteners 36 a,36 b. The fasteners 36 a, 36 b are received through corresponding holesin the fittings 34 a, 34 b and the vertical supports 76 a, 76 b.Horizontal brace 80 extending across the vertical supports 76 a, 76 bmay be used for additional support.

The convertible seat 10 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 can operate in a similarfashion as discussed above. When the convertible seat 10 is utilized asa boat seat, the primary seating surface 24 of the convertible seat 10may be placed in a horizontal or standard seating configuration toprovide a conventional sitting position for the boater, as illustratedin FIG. 8 . In this embodiment, the boater's feet may be positioned onthe floor of the boat or other marine vehicle. The user may then desireto move the convertible seat 10 to an elevated seating configuration. Inthis embodiment, the convertible seat 10 may be pivoted in an upwardlydirection to the vertical or elevated seating configuration, asillustrated in FIG. 9 . In this embodiment, the boater can sit in anelevated seating position or lean against the convertible seat 10. Theexemplary locking mechanisms described above, for instance, the stopmembers 40 a, 40 b and the brace members 46 a, 46 b positioned on theseat, may be used with the convertible seat 10 to secure the convertibleseat 10 in either the horizontal or vertical configuration (as depictedin FIGS. 8 and 9 , respectively).

FIGS. 10 and 11 show the convertible seat 10 of the present disclosureattached to a base 84 for supporting the seat 10 within a boat 70. FIG.10 shows the convertible seat 10 in the horizontal or standard seatingconfiguration while FIG. 11 shows the convertible seat 10 in thevertical or elevated seating configuration. As illustrated in FIGS. 10and 11 , the platform 72 of the seat 10 is operatively attached to thebase 84. The base 84 may have a mount 86 to which the platform 72 isattached. In this embodiment, the mount 86 may have slots (not shown)that correspond with the slots 78 on the platform 72 so that fastenersmay inserted therethrough to attach the convertible seat 10 to the base84. The base 84 may be a marine post or pedestal, such as an adjustablepedestal. The mount 86 may be a plate, a swivel seat mount, or a fixedseat mount. While the convertible seat shown in FIGS. 8-11 has beenshown for use in a boat, as will be appreciated by those of ordinaryskill in the art, the convertible seat having the platform attachedthereto may be adapted for use in other types of vehicles, such asconstruction vehicles (e.g., forklifts, bulldozers, excavators, etc.),agricultural vehicles (e.g., tractors, plows, etc.), and the like.

FIGS. 12 and 13 show the convertible seat 10 illustrated in FIGS. 8 and9 , respectively, having a back rest attached thereto. The back rest canadd comfortability to the seat for the user. For instance, when used ina boat, the back rest can add comfort and support for the boater,especially when the boat is travelling at a high rate of speed. Theconvertible seat having the back rest attached thereto may also beadvantageous for seating in stadiums or theaters. Users can utilize theelevated seating configuration to get a better view of the sportingevent, concert, or theatrical event.

As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 , the convertible seat 10 may have aback rest 88 attached to the seat frame 20. The back rest 88 has a frame90 that defines a back rest surface 92 that can be used to support theback of the user. The frame 90 is operatively attached to the seat frame20 via hinges 94 a, 94 b. The hinges 94 a, 94 b may be attached to theseat frame 20 and the frame 90 with fasteners, such as bolts. The hinges94 a, 94 b allow the seat 10 to pivot upward and downward relative tothe back rest 92 between the standard seating configuration and theelevated seating configuration. While the back rest has been illustratedon the convertible seats shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , one of ordinary sillin the art will appreciate that the back rests described herein may alsobe utilized on the convertible seats attached to the tree standsdescribed herein.

The foregoing description illustrates and describes the apparatuses andother teachings of the present disclosure. Additionally, the disclosureshows and describes only certain embodiments of the apparatuses andother teachings disclosed, but, as mentioned above, it is to beunderstood that the teachings of the present disclosure are capable ofuse in various other combinations, modifications, and environments andare capable of changes or modifications within the scope of theteachings as expressed herein, commensurate with the skill and/orknowledge of a person having ordinary skill in the relevant art. Theembodiments described hereinabove are further intended to explaincertain best modes known of practicing the apparatuses and otherteachings of the present disclosure and to enable others skilled in theart to utilize the teachings of the present disclosure in such, orother, embodiments and with the various modifications required by theparticular applications or uses. Accordingly, the apparatuses and otherteachings of the present disclosure are not intended to limit the exactembodiments and examples disclosed herein. Any section headings hereinare provided only for consistency with the suggestions of 37 C.F.R. §1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational queues. These headings shallnot limit or characterize the invention(s) set forth herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A tree stand, comprising: a standing surface; asupport structure having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lowerend is operatively connected to the standing surface; a convertible seatoperatively attached to the upper end of the support structure, whereinthe convertible seat comprises a primary seating surface integrallyformed with a secondary seating surface, the primary seating surfaceextending from a rear edge to a frontmost edge of the convertible seatand the secondary seating surface extending from the frontmost edge to abottom edge of the convertible seat, wherein the secondary seatingsurface curves downwardly from the frontmost portion to the bottom edgeof the convertible seat, wherein the convertible seat is operable tomove about a horizontal axis between a standard seating configuration inwhich the primary seating surface is generally parallel with thestanding surface and the secondary seating surface is generallyperpendicular to the primary seating surface and an elevated seatingconfiguration in which the secondary seating surface is generallyparallel with the standing surface and the primary seating surface isgenerally perpendicular to the secondary seating surface, and whereinthe standard seating configuration supports a user in a first positionat a first height and the elevated seating configuration supports theuser in a second position at a second height, the second height beinghigher than the first height.
 2. The tree stand of claim 1, wherein thesupport structure comprises a pair of legs and the convertible seat ispivotally attached to the upper ends of each of the legs via a pair offittings.
 3. The tree stand of claim 2, wherein the fittings eachcomprise a notch configured for engaging a locking mechanism on thesupport structure for securing the convertible seat in the elevatedseating configuration.
 4. The tree stand of claim 3, wherein the lockingmechanism comprises a pair of stop members on each of the legsconfigured for engaging the notches on the fittings when the convertibleseat is in the elevated seating configuration.
 5. The tree stand ofclaim 1, wherein the primary seating surface is substantially flat. 6.The tree stand of claim 1, wherein the second height is at least about10 inches higher than the first height.
 7. The tree stand of claim 1,wherein the convertible seat comprises a seat frame having a rear edge,wherein the rear edge is operatively attached to the upper end of thesupport structure.
 8. The tree stand of claim 1, wherein, when theconvertible seat is oriented in the standard seating configuration, theconvertible seat is operable to pivot in an upward direction about thehorizontal axis to convert the convertible seat to the elevated seatingconfiguration.
 9. The tree stand of claim 1, wherein, when theconvertible seat is oriented in the elevated seating configuration, theconvertible seat is operable to pivot in a downward direction about thehorizontal axis to convert the convertible seat to the standard seatingconfiguration.
 10. A tree stand, comprising: upper and lower climbingplatform members, each having a front end portion for engaging a tree tobe climbed, a convertible seat pivotally attached to the upper climbingplatform member, wherein the convertible seat comprises a primaryseating surface integrally formed with a secondary seating surface, theprimary seating surface extending from a rear edge to a frontmost edgeof the convertible seat and the secondary seating surface extending fromthe frontmost edge to a bottom edge of the convertible seat, wherein theconvertible seat is operable to pivot about a horizontal axis between astandard seating configuration in which the primary seating surface isgenerally parallel with the standing surface and the secondary seatingsurface is generally perpendicular to the primary seating surface and anelevated seating configuration in which the secondary seating surface isgenerally parallel with the standing surface and the primary seatingsurface is generally perpendicular to the secondary seating surface, andwherein the standard seating configuration supports a user in a firstposition at a first height and the elevated seating configurationsupports the user in a second position at a second height, the secondheight being higher than the first height.
 11. The tree stand of claim10, wherein the upper climbing member comprises a vertical post and theconvertible seat is pivotally attached to each side of the vertical postvia a pair of fittings.
 12. The tree stand of claim 11, wherein thefittings are pivotally attached to the vertical post by fastenerssecured with a retaining member.
 13. The tree stand of claim 11, whereinthe fittings each comprise a notch configured for engaging a lockingmechanism on the vertical post for securing the convertible seat in theelevated seating configuration.
 14. The tree stand of claim 13, whereinthe locking mechanism comprises a pair of stop members on each side ofthe vertical post configured for engaging the notches on the fittingswhen the convertible seat is in the elevated seating configuration. 15.The tree stand of claim 11, wherein the fittings each comprise a slotfor receiving an edge of the convertible seat.
 16. The tree stand ofclaim 10, wherein the secondary seating surface curves downwardly fromthe frontmost portion to the bottom edge of the convertible seat. 17.The tree stand of claim 10, wherein the second height is at least about10 inches higher than the first height.
 18. The tree stand of claim 10,wherein the upper and lower climbing platform members each comprise anadjustable cable attached thereto for encircling the tree to be climbed.19. The tree stand of claim 10, wherein, when the convertible seat isoriented in the standard seating configuration, the convertible seat isoperable to pivot in an upward direction about the horizontal axis toconvert the convertible seat to the elevated seating configuration. 20.The tree stand of claim 10, wherein, when the convertible seat isoriented in the elevated seating configuration, the convertible seat isoperable to pivot in a downward direction about the horizontal axis toconvert the convertible seat to the standard seating configuration.